Liv Charlotte Hanes

Liv Charlotte Hanes, affectionately known as Omi, left this world on January 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family in Westminster, Colorado. Born in Schweidnitz, Germany, on January 10, 1943, Liv immigrated to the United States on January 23, 1959, at the age of sixteen. She graduated from Central High School in Cheyenne, Wyoming, in 1961, embracing her new life in a new land with an open heart and a zest for learning. While on a double date, she soon met the love of her life, John Hanes. Ironically, they were each dating the other person, but John swooped in to make sure the next date was with him. Thus began a true love that is rarely seen.

Liv dedicated many years of her life to her career as a law secretary, where her sharp mind and strong work ethic shone brightly. She joined the secretarial staff at the Wyoming State Senate in 1977, eventually becoming the Senate Chief Clerk in 1987, a role she held with pride until 2000.

A beacon of warmth and kindness, Liv truly and deeply cared for those around her, offering a sense of peace, calm, and love to everyone she encountered—be it family, friends, or the devoted staff who provided her care in her later years. Holidays were particularly memorable times, filled with laughter and joy. At the annual Christmas Eve dinner, Liv would play along with Greg and Clint's impressions of the "Hans and Franz" characters. "Ja, ja, das ist schnitzel!" became a cherished phrase that echoed through the memories of their festive gatherings, where they indulged in traditional German meals.

Liv's captivating personality was marked by her dimples and bright blue eyes, which immediately drew others to her. With a positive outlook and an infectious sense of humor, she left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Even in her last weeks, she offered sage advice and encouraged those around her to pursue their dreams and be kind to each other.

Beyond her career and her family, Liv was an active member of PEO and a fervent supporter of Rotary, reflecting her commitment to community and service. She was a passionate athlete, particularly excelling in tennis, where she was a multi-year winner of both the annual Cheyenne Country Club women's singles tournament and the Governor's Cup state-wide tournament.

Her proudest accomplishments were found in her family. Liv celebrated a cherished marriage of nearly 50 years with her soulmate, John, whose memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew them. Together, they shared a love that remained vibrant as if they were newlyweds for nearly half a century. She was immensely proud of her two sons, Greg Hanes and his wife Angela, of Broomfield, Colorado, and Clint Hanes and his wife Melissa, of Cheyenne, Wyoming. Her five grandchildren—Ayanna Hanes, Hailey Sipe, Joseph Baca, Keelan Hanes, and Alexis Baca—were the light in her life. Liv was a devoted grandmother, known for hosting sleepovers and delighting her grandchildren with breakfast rituals that involved teaching them the perfect way to make soft boiled eggs or somehow making the most delicious toast (yes, toast) which was cut into perfect squares.

Liv is survived by her beloved sons and their families, along with her sister, Karin Krause, of North Richland Hills, Texas. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, John, her mother Charlotte  (Adam) Paul, her father Hubert Paul, and her brothers Rolf, Jan, and Peer Paul.

As we gather to remember Liv, we celebrate a life that was a testament to love, joy, and unwavering support for those around her. She will be deeply missed but her spirit, encapsulated in her endless love for family and friends, will forever guide us through our memories of her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's research.